December in Prague - Things to do

December is fast approaching, and it is a MAGICAL time to be in Prague. With the Christmas markets in full mode, the first snowflakes falling on the remarkable labyrinth-like streets of Prague offering breathtaking views of the city and memories that will last a lifetime.

Mulled wine (svařák) or a hot chocolate will definitely help to warm you up while exploring the markets and outdoor activities, but there is so much more to see and do along with some very special and traditional Czech days that cannot be missed if you are in town.

The Christmas markets are open from the 1st of December, the market in Náměsti Míru opens on November 20th and will last at least until Christmas Eve. We already published All you Need guide for the Christmas markets. However, there is a lot more happening in December.

This traditional open-air market right next to Prague’s National Theatre building brings 180 designers selling artwork and design pieces such as art, jewelry, handbags, accessories, decorations, clothes and toys. There will be live music, workshops, children’s theatre and fashion shows.

Mikuláš (St. Nicholas Day)

When: 5th of December 2019

Time: 16:00

Where: Old Town Christmas Market

Devils, Angels, St Nicholas and Czech children judgment day. This curious Czech tradition takes place everywhere in town but concentrates around the Old Town Christmas market.

Children in awe must recite poems and songs in order to prove themselves good kids to St Nicholas to avoid being taken by the devil in its sack and get their presents on Christmas Day. Be prepared, the loose devils are plenty and they look scary.

Ice Rink in the Old Town

When: 5th of December 2019 – 31st of January 2020

Opening hours: 10:00 – 21:00

Where: Ovocny Trh, behind the Estates Theatre

Free Entry. Skates Hire: 100 CZK adults / 50 CZK children

Christmas must have some ice-skating, and where better than in the historical streets of Prague’s Old Town, just behind the impressive Estates Theatre. The perfect break from the Old Town Christmas market.

Lamp lighting the Charles Bridge

When: 1st of December 2019 – 23rd of December 2019

Time: 16:00

Where: Charles Bridge

Free Entry

This theatre-like real activity takes place in Prague’s most famous postcard, the Charles Bridge. Bringing up the Christmas atmosphere, a lamplighter wearing period costume lights the historical gas lamps along the Charles Bridge taking you back in time in this amazing experience.

The Nutcracker Ballet Series

When: 10th 12th 17th 19th 21st 22nd 25th 27th 29th 31st December 2019

Where: National Theatre, Narodni 2, Prague 1.

Being in Prague for the festive season calls for Tchaikovsky’s adorable ballet “The Nutcracker”. This charming production at the National Theatre amazes audiences every year. Advanced booking is essential. Most of the best times are already sold out, but you still can find seats in this link here or with travel and tour agencies.

The newly rebuilt Historical National Museum brings two major expositions in December

Tutankhamun Real Experience Exhibition (1st of November 2019 – 31st of January 2020)

Opening hours: 10:00 – 18:00 daily

Entry fees: Adult 320 CZK / Senior & Child 270 CZK / Family 520 CZK

The famous Egyptian pharaoh through original artefacts as well as the latest multimedia technology.

The Kings of the Heaven (1st of November 2019 – 31st of January 2020)

Opening hours: 10:00 – 18:00 daily

Entre fees: Adult 260 CZK / Senior & Child 170 CZK / Family 440 CZK

Dedicated to the bravery of Czechoslovak pilots who joined and flew with the Royal Air Force during WWII.

30th anniversary of the Velvet Revolution

Where: National Gallery in Prague & Prague City Museum

Exhibition of photography, video, texts and the history of this historical day and the president Vaclav Havel to celebrate this milestone in Czech’s history.

New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve in Prague is a different experience. Normally fireworks and celebration take place on New Year’s Day as it is the Restauration Day of the Independent Czech State.

What is left for New Year’s Eve is private fireworks from our people. But there is one little problem, after midnight, a little madness takes over Prague’s main squares that recollects to war zone with local and tourists firing the fireworks towards each other.